On September 22, 2011, The Honorable Christian Syse, Deputy Secretary General of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs addressed Norway’s unique role within the transatlantic alliance, as a founding member of NATO and as an important partner of the European Union. Just shy of EU membership, Norway’s active role is by no means limited to its’ engagement in the European Free Trade Association and the European Economic Area, as witnessed by the nation’s consistent efforts to further greater social and economic cohesion in Central and Eastern Europe. Mr. Syse also offered insights into the future of Norway’s relationship with the European Union, and the considerable challenges facing both Europe and the United States.